New Sim Will Offer Cessna 172 Flight Deck With GFC700 Autopilot

Yingling Aviation's instructional fleet expanded this week with new equipment that can provide a myriad of flight training scenarios without ever leaving the ground. A new Frasca Mentor equipped to simulate a Cessna 172/S with Garmin G1000 avionics and a GFC700 autopilot has been delivered and installed in Yingling's Flight Training Department.

The FAA-approved Advanced Aviation Training Device (FTD) will be available for an introductory rate of $55 per hour, not including hourly instructor fees of $35. It includes a full, functioning aircraft panel, flight controls, an instructor computer control station and a 60 inch, High Definition monitor to provide visual terrain, weather and maneuvering references.

"We're adding this FTD to our fleet to provide our customers with the most comprehensive training experience they can get in this class of airplane," said Lynn Nichols, Yingling's president and chief executive officer. "The simulator is available to both private pilot and instrument students and it will allow them to gain credible and valuable experience in situations they wouldn't attempt or encounter in real flight."

"Of course, one situation we're all encountering these days is the rising cost of fuel. This simulator provides a significant opportunity for student pilots to save money by allowing them to complete a portion of the training syllabus without burning any gas. For instance, an instrument student can save over $1,700 by taking more than half of the required instruction in the simulator instead of a real airplane," Nichols added.

Under its revised regulation 14 CFR Part 61, the FAA has approved FTDs as substitutes for actual flight time in fixed wing aircraft when specific conditions are met. They can be utilized for 2.5 of the 40 hours of flight time required as a minimum for obtaining a private pilot's license and up to 20 of the 40 hours of instrument time required to earn an Instrument Rating.

Yingling will also be able to offer portions of the Instrument Check Ride-one precision and one non-precision approach and other maneuvers specified in the Primary Training Syllabus (PTS)--as well as all maneuvers required for Instrument Currency. FTDs are also approved for all or part of Instrument Proficiency Checks.

"This simulator is an exceptionally versatile and popular training tool," Nichols pointed out. "This particular model provides a very realistic and effective presentation. We expect it to get extensive usage," he added.

FMI: www.yinglingaviation.com